Library Updates

Aging Across America: A photo exhibit in the Briscoe Library

An opening reception for Aging Across America, featuring an introduction by Dr. Jerald Winakur and a poetry reading by Lee Robinson, will take place Wednesday, February 9, 2011, 9:00 a.m. Briscoe Library— Special Collections Reading Room– 5th floor

Aging Across America, an exhibit featuring the photography of Dr. Jeffrey Levine, will be on display in the 3rd Floor Information Commons of the Briscoe Library February 1 – April 30, 2011.

Dr. Levine, a gerontologist who lives and works in New York City, began photographing the very old early in his career. At first he documented the manifestations of old age for lectures and medical publications. “One day I pulled my camera back to see my subjects in their environment and daily life, and a new world of visual imagery opened up,” he says.

Dr. Levine’s photographic art has been inspired by medical doctors who in the past have used the arts to educate, inspire, and create a better world: “America’s perception of aging is often mired in stereotype, negativism, and a large dose of denial. Thus the need for a new view of growing old– a view that presents optimism, vitality and participation while acknowledging the realities of illness.” More information about Dr. Levine and his work can be found at http://www.levinemdphotos.com/.

Dr. Levine’s photographs are accompanied by a cell phone audio tour with narration by Dr. Levine, as well as readings by Lee Robinson, poet and adjunct faculty member in the School of Medicine, whose displayed poems were inspired by the photos. The exhibit is free and open to the public, and will be available during normal library hours.